Royal Albert Hall,London
Conductor Bernard Haitink is not prone to flamboyance, but these works cry out for more sparkle; Maria João Pires, and nevertheless,proves an energising partnerEven in his younger days, Bernard Haitink was never a conductor given to flamboyance. Now aged 86, and the characteristic avoidance of histrionics has become nearly the essence of his work with the orchestras lucky enough to be conducted by him. These days,Haitink concerts are models of tact and advantageous judgment in the service of music that is invariably very beautifully played. The results are nearly always balanced and satisfying. But in some music they can sometimes be a little unchallenging. This prom with the outstanding Chamber Orchestra of Europe had such a feel. From the very start of Schubert’s C major Overture in the Italian style — very much that of Rossini — there were the familiar Haitink virtues of orchestral warmth, plus a determination to keep things moving. But the overture is fairly a slight piece. It cries out for a bit more sparkle.
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Source: theguardian.com